As the days grow shorter and the air turns crisp, Kent’s gardens and historic estates come alive with the rich colours of autumn.
There are plenty of spots to enjoy seasonal walks and blooms this month. Here’s our guide to the best places to take in the autumnal beauty across the county…
Visit some of Kent’s top attractions this October and admire spectacular autumn colours. Picture: National Trust Images / Nick Dougan
EMMETTS GARDEN, near Sevenoaks
This stunning National Trust property comes to life in autumn. Take a walk through the estate and enjoy crunching leaves, changing colours and views over the Weald of Kent. You can spot many seasonal highlights, including the winged spindle tree, red Japanese maples and sweet-smelling ‘candyfloss’ tree. Find out more here.
GREAT COMP GARDEN, near Sevenoaks
Visit the two-day Bulbs ‘N’ Things Autumn Fair to help you prepare for a colourful spring season next year. There will be specialist nurseries, unusual bulbs and handmade gifts available to buy, as well as vibrant autumnal sights across the seven-acre gardens. Enjoy rich textures and cosy colours throughout the month. Find out more here.
Hever Castle is celebrating autumn for the whole of October with workshops and outdoor trails. Picture: Hever Castle and Gardens
HEVER CASTLE, Edenbridge
Whether it’s the fiery red Boston Ivy that climbs the castle walls or the canopy of trees along the Lake Walk, Hever Castle is certainly a sight to behold at this time of year. The award-winning gardens will change from green to shades of gold and orange throughout October, with a self-guided autumn walk trail and gardening workshops also taking place this month. Find out more here.
HOLE PARK, near Ashford
This woodland garden might be known for its spectacular bluebell display, but it can still hold its own during the autumn months. The trees and shrubs range from glorious golds to warm oranges and vibrant yellow, with splashes of colour in the cannas and dahlias. Make sure to also stop and admire the late-flowering giant agapanthus, known as the ‘Hole Park Blue’. Find out more here.
The grounds of Leeds Castle will be decked out in vivid autumnal colours. Picture: Leeds Castle
LEEDS CASTLE, near Maidstone
Leeds Castle’s spectacular 550-acre parkland is the perfect place to take in the sights and sounds of the season. You can start with a stroll through the Oriental Garden, filled with brilliant colours and a blooming magnolia, followed by a walk through the castle’s individual gardens. Each space has its own unique design, made all the more eye-catching thanks to the fallen leaves and reddish hues. Find out more here.
MOUNT EPHRAIM, near Faversham
This traditional country estate boasts more than 800 acres of woodland and pasture, with the grand house and beautiful gardens at its heart. The Edwardian garden, Japanese rock garden, lake, orchard, mature trees, topiary and arboretum will soon be tinged with warm, autumnal colours. Find out more here.
Visitors can admire the stunning seasonal colours at Penshurst Place
PENSHURST PLACE, near Tonbridge
There’s plenty to explore at this historic estate, from the romantic medieval house to the 11-acre Tudor garden. The yew hedging separates each garden ‘room’, which all have their own season and colour, with the autumn spaces all being smattered with wonderful golds and rich browns. The apple trees along Coronation Walk will be in season and the avenue of large-leaved lime trees will create a path of fallen leaves.
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